Mark Potter

“Complex projects that embrace innovation” sums up Mark’s attraction to SmithGroup’s Higher Ed and Science & Technology markets. All the better if they’re academic research facilities that span both. “Those kinds of projects tend to involve clients that appreciate quality and contextual design,” he explains, “and a large integrated team that provides opportunities for collaboration.” Mark has a number of them under his belt, including the University of Pennsylvania’s Stephen A. Levin Neural and Behavioral Sciences Building, and the University of Michigan’s Biological Sciences Building and Museum of Natural History. Mark’s appreciation for teamwork accounts for his interest in volleyball and his taste in films. One of his favorites is Miracle, the inspirational true story of the U.S. men’s hockey team victory over the Soviets in the 1980 Olympic Winter Games. “It shows that hard work and teamwork can triumph over the most talented individuals,” he says.